There’s just something about tostadas that makes taco night a little more fun. They’re crispy, messy in the best way and loaded with all the good stuff. These Easy Loaded Beef Tostadas start with crunchy tostada shells layered with creamy refried beans, seasoned taco meat and plenty of fresh toppings.

They’re ready in about 30 minutes, easy to customize and perfect for those nights when everyone wants something a little different. Set out all the toppings and let everyone build their own!

Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 8–10 crispy tostada shells
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 2/3 cup water, or amount called for on seasoning packet
• 1/2 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 (16 oz) can refried beans
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend or cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded lettuce
• 1 cup pico de gallo
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 avocado, sliced or diced
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Sliced jalapeños, optional
• Chopped cilantro, optional

Directions

1. Cook the taco meat.
Add the ground beef and diced onion to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, breaking the beef into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease.

2. Add the seasoning.
Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Add the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, until the meat is well coated and the sauce has thickened.

3. Warm the beans.
Heat the refried beans in a small saucepan over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warm and easy to spread. If the beans are too thick, stir in a tablespoon or two of water.

4. Build the tostadas.
Spread each tostada shell with a layer of warm refried beans. Top with taco meat and shredded cheese.

5. Add the toppings.
Layer on the shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, avocado and a spoonful of salsa.

6. Finish & serve.
Top with a dollop or drizzle of sour cream. Add jalapeños and cilantro if desired and serve immediately with fresh lime wedges.

Tip

Spread the refried beans on the tostada first. They help hold the taco meat and toppings in place—and make these deliciously messy tostadas just a little easier to eat!